Six Square’s vision for Austin’s black cultural district
- The Six Square District is a gathering place for everyone to enjoy Austin’s unique black arts, music, history, and culture.
- Central East Austin’s distinctive places and diverse people are celebrated, respected and preserved.
- Through Six Square’s dynamic exhibits, inspiring performances, and courageous conversations, Austin’s urban core is vibrantly diverse.
- By investing in black artists, musicians, and businesses, Six Square spurs responsible economic development in Central East Austin.
The 1928 City of Austin master plan forced the displacement of black Austinites to a six square-mile “negro district” on the city’s east side. By 1930, 80% of Austin’s once-widespread black residents lived in the area. Despite segregation, black stores, clubs, restaurants flourished in the area. Multi-generational families grew, and prominent leaders made local and national history in the areas of music, education, architecture, government, business, and sports.
The Six Square district is bordered to the north by Manor Road, to the south by Seventh Street, to the east by Airport Boulevard, and to the west by Interstate 35. It includes historic homes, churches, commercial buildings, schools, cemeteries and parks.
